Turn up the heat with these Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders — juicy, crispy chicken coated in a fiery, flavorful spice blend that’ll wake up your taste buds! This easy-to-follow recipe brings the bold, iconic Southern heat straight to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or whenever you’re craving that irresistible sweet-heat combo!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 tsp black pepper

- 1 tbsp paprika

- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)

- 1 tbsp brown sugar

- 1 tsp garlic powder

- Peanut oil (for frying)

Hot Sauce Glaze:
- 1/2 cup hot frying oil
- 2 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg together. Add chicken tenders, cover, and marinate for 30 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Remove tenders from the marinade and coat them evenly in the flour mixture. Shake off excess.
4. Fry:
Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken tenders in batches for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Make the Hot Glaze:
In a heatproof bowl, mix cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Carefully ladle in the hot frying oil and stir until smooth.
6. Coat and Serve:
Brush the spicy glaze over the fried chicken tenders and serve hot with pickles, white bread, or coleslaw!
🍗 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy, juicy, and packed with Southern flavor
- Easy to make at home — no need to visit Nashville!
- Customizable heat level
- Perfect for parties, family dinners, or game nights
💬 Tried this recipe?
Let me know in the comments how spicy you like your hot chicken! I’d love to hear your tasty twists and favorite pairings. 🔥🍗